XPOLAR offers solutions for faster recovery, targeted relief

Video by Lin Songtao

For those who live for the rush of endorphins and the satisfaction of pushing their limits, the downside of an active lifestyle is all too familiar: muscle soreness, fatigue, and inflammation. These discomforts can not only slow down progress but also dampen the motivation to continue pursuing fitness goals.

Basketballers use XPOLAR 2 to recover during the interval of a FIBA 3X3 Deqing Challenger game in Deqing, Zhejiang Province in this November 2024 file photo. Photos courtesy of the interviewee except otherwise stated

What if there was a way to minimize downtime and maximize performance? XPOLAR X2, a portable recovery device developed by Shenzhen startup XPOLAR, offers a desirable option for targeted relief and accelerated recovery.

Post-workout recovery

The XPOLAR X2 addresses a common challenge faced by individuals who engage in regular exercise: finding effective and efficient ways to recover. Traditional recovery methods like ice packs and heating pads often lack the necessary precision and control, leaving users with limited options for personalized treatment.

The concept for this intelligent, portable sports recovery device was born out of a simple realization: traditional recovery methods were inefficient and inconvenient. Chen Congyi and Li Baisong, XPOLAR’s founders, saw an opportunity to transform the recovery experience.

X2 Lite a smaller, more compact version of the XPOLAR X2, will launch soon.

“They thought that the ice packs and heating pads people were using for recovery weren’t substantial enough. It wasn’t very convenient, so they came up with the idea of combining all these remedies into one device,” Jehu Lafeuillee, XPOLAR’s overseas business development representative and a professional basketball player, told Shenzhen Daily during an interview.

Targeting medium to high-intensity trainers and fitness enthusiasts, XPOLAR X2 seamlessly integrates compression, hot and cold therapy, and alternating hot and cold treatments, offering a comprehensive and convenient solution for post-workout recovery.

Innovation at the core

XPOLAR is committed to innovation and is constantly seeking new ways to enhance recovery and promote well-being. The XPOLAR X2 boasts several technological advancements that set it apart from existing recovery solutions, according to Lafeuillee.

The device utilizes the Peltier effect, a thermoelectric phenomenon, to achieve rapid heating and cooling. This allows users to switch between hot and cold therapy with a simple press of a button.

An XPOLAR X2 portable recovery device developed by Shenzhen startup XPOLAR. Lin Songtao

“You are able to control that heating and cooling with one click of a button on the device, so you can go from cooling to heating in a matter of seconds,” said Lafeuillee while giving a demonstration.

Meanwhile, integrated airbags provide dynamic compression, promoting blood circulation and reducing swelling. This feature ensures that the device conforms to different body parts and delivers targeted relief.

With one click on the app, XPOLAR X2 users can choose different modes for recovery. Lin Songtao

In addition, the XPOLAR X2 offers contrast therapy, a technique that alternates between hot and cold temperatures to stimulate the body’s natural healing response and accelerate recovery. This feature is particularly beneficial for individuals dealing with muscle soreness and inflammation.

“The straps also make it very versatile,” Lafeuillee said. “The straps can be easily configured to fit various body parts, including knees, thighs, calves, and shoulders.”

Lafeuillee noted that the device offers excellent cost-effectiveness compared to other recovery devices on the market. He emphasized that while there are other devices that offer similar functions, they tend to be more expensive and often lack the combination of features found in the XPOLAR X2.

“The price is much cheaper than other devices on the market. Given its high quality, I don’t see any reason why the device wouldn’t flourish on the market,” he added.

Global expansion

XPOLAR has experienced significant growth and success since its inception, expanding its reach to over 25 countries. The company has established strategic partnerships with many renowned athletes, sports teams, physical therapists, and wellness centers from home and abroad.

A wall of photos in XPOLAR's office showing professional athletes and coaches using XPOLAR's products. Lin Songtao

Lafeuillee shared that feedback from both healthcare professionals and customers regarding the XPOLAR X2 has been positive. “They appreciate the device’s flexibility, ease of use, and faster recovery time using the device.”

He revealed that XPOLAR is currently preparing to launch a new device called the X2 Lite. This smaller, more compact version of the XPOLAR X2 is designed for smaller joint areas such as the wrist, elbow, and ankle.

XPOLAR also plans to launch a new product on Kickstarter, aiming to bring recovery technology to an even broader customer segment. This upcoming product will further expand the company’s product portfolio and make recovery solutions more accessible to a wider audience.

Jehu Lafeuillee, XPOLAR’s overseas business development representative and a professional basketball player, at a recent interview with Shenzhen Daily. Lin Songtao

“We’re excited to keep pushing the boundaries of smarter technology,” Lafeuillee said.

Lafeuillee believes that Shenzhen plays a pivotal role in XPOLAR’s growth. “Setting up our headquarters in Shenzhen has been a huge advantage, which allows us to quickly test our devices and bring new products to the market.”

Culturally, the city is full of energy and very innovative, with many young minds driving progress. “It’s a place that pushes you to move faster and think more,” he added.

“By combining user-friendly design, engineering excellence, and manufacturing agility, we can compete globally and forge a new path for Shenzhen-born global healthcare brands,” Lafeuillee said.